For many around the world, 2020 was their most challenging year. We are all ready for something different, even though hitting January 1 will not change our current crisis. Nonetheless, the new year always signifies change and renewal. Many of us are sitting down to update our affirmations (because you know how I feel about resolutions), and many of us are considering our goals for the new year. I hate to put a wrench in your plans, but I need you to focus on your vision before your goal. Hop on and let’s R.I.D.E. your vision into 2021!
In my experience, to accomplish as much as you possibly can, the most important thing to get right is your vision. You must set your trajectory. Otherwise, you don’t stand much chance of getting to your destination. Unfortunately, many of us end up writing goals (incorrectly) that prevent us from being successful. Harsh, I know, but if you start off just writing goals, you start with the wrong intent in mind. Goals need to be set based on visions – which is what we’re going to explore here.
The Difference Between a Goal and a Vision
But first, what’s the difference between a goal and a vision? Essentially, a goal is something that you write down, and that is very concrete and simple. A goal may, for example, be to ‘lose 10lbs in two months’. That is a goal, but not as effective as a vision designed with the same end.
This same ambition posed as a vision rather than a goal would instead be more the idea of being in shape. You might visualize yourself looking ripped and feeling healthy. You might imagine yourself going for jogs on the beach (or around your living room, thank you 2020), partaking in healthy meals and even healthier habits. That’s your vision.
A vision can also be an image of yourself standing in the corner office, looking out over the world, knowing that you’re in a position of great importance and power. Vision is an abstract concept that helps you get a picture of what you want and the emotion behind that desire.
Your goals will get you to your vision, only if you carefully craft them to do so.
Why Visions Evoke Sustainable Change
So why is it more important to first create visions rather than goals? Simply put, a goal without a vision is wasted action.
For one, goals are not nearly flexible enough. If you have a goal, then this gives you one thing you’re trying to accomplish and only one idea of how to get there. With a vision, you have the freedom to change the steps (goals) you take to get there or bend them to fit your current lifestyle, plans, and free time.
Second, visions have more emotional content. Visualizations can trigger emotion as though what you are visualizing is actually happening. And it’s this emotion we can use to motivate ourselves to go through with plans!
How to develop your vision? R.I.D.E
In my upcoming courses, I delve into the topics of fighting uncertainty, finding your passion and purpose, and shifting your mindset to allow for bigger, better dreams. Part of that discovery is envisioning your future. Take a R.I.D.E (reflect, imagine, design, evaluate) to get started on setting your vision.
Reflect. Creating a vision for yourself requires a bit of reflection. Ask yourself, “what is it that gives my life meaning, purpose, and joy?” Reflect on your talents and abilities.
What makes you smile the instant you think of doing it? Determine your unique ability, gift, or interest. Ask yourself, “what do I look forward to more than anything else in the world?” Check out my ebook Breakthrough Uncertainty: 40 Questions to Help You Discover Your Passion and Purpose to guide your passion and purpose discovery.
Imagine. Armed with the list of your talents, interests, and joy activities, it is time to form a vision around them. Tap into your inner child and use your imagination to create your reality! Start dreaming of how you can spend time doing what you love. Dream as if you were a child again, envisioning yourself walking in your purpose. Don’t get stumped on this step. Check out my ebook Breakthrough Uncertainty: 40 Questions to Help You Discover Your Passion and Purpose for guidance.
Design. With your visualizations in place, the next step is to set goals that will serve as stepping stones toward fulfilling your vision. You can start developing these goals by asking yourself questions like: What do I want to accomplish in my life?
What kind of legacy do I want to leave behind? What would I do if I had all of the money in the world? Make sure your short term goals are realistic and the rest – big!
Be clear, meaningful, well defined, and make sure your goals EXCITE you!
Evaluate. As you begin a new day today, always keep in mind everything you have written down and envisioned for your better future. Although you may not jump into your goals and plans above immediately, you can still start working towards a new reality by thinking of the outcomes while you are doing your best today. Maybe you still have to go to work in the job you hate, deal with some problems you’d rather not have, but you can do them with vigor and excitement, knowing that your future will change according to your vision when you are ready.
So, let’s R.I.D.E into 2021, and be sure to check out Breakthrough Uncertainty: 40 Questions to Help You Discover Your Passion and Purpose to guide you to your passion and purpose. Also, check out my post about Resolutions vs. Affirmations to see why I advocate for affirmations over resolutions.
Happy New Year!
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